It reached the astounding number of one million inhabitants by the end of the 1st century B.C., long before any other city (London got there only with the 1600 census).
Rome was the first cosmopolitan city in history: its demographic and building growth boosted incredibly considering that at the beginning of the II century it covered an area of 1800 hectares in 22-kilometre perimeter. Romans’ building techniques and their unique ability to work with different materials had been unattainable for centuries. That’s why the Urbe – from the Latin word “Urbs”, meaning “City” - was the first existing metropolis and the most influential centre of power.
Even after the fall of the Western Roman Empire (476 A.D.) Rome played a major role in history being the seat of the Christian Church which, throughout the centuries, enriched the city with countless treasures and artwork. In fact, many important artists (like Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, Bernini etc.) were hired by Popes such as Nicholas V, Julius II, Paul III, Paul V and Urban VIII, to work in the capital even if they were not born there.
Throughout millennia the Urbe has seen kings, consuls, senators, dictators, emperors and popes; it has witnessed the evolution of Roman civilization and the establishment of Papal power; it has given birth to several extraordinary personalities that made history.
Despite its many contradictions Rome has kept a magnetic charm that makes it different from any other city. Worthy of being visited more than once, it gives tourists the feeling of somehow coming home. Moreover, due to its particularly mild climate, the city is enjoyable in any season. It’s also famous for its wide range of food and wine and the chance to do high-quality shopping guaranteed by the “made in Italy”.
Along the streets of this wonderful city you will get in touch with the past and find yourself.
With these few lines, I hope I have succeeded in tempting the reader to fantasize about an incredible holiday and then turn it into reality.
Giuseppe Rosselli